The Red-Tailed Red Eye Puffer (Carinotetraodon irrubesco) is a small but fascinating freshwater pufferfish known for its striking red eyes and reddish tail. Here’s everything you need to know:
Basic Information
• Scientific Name: Carinotetraodon irrubesco
• Common Name: Red-Tailed Red Eye Puffer
• Origin: Native to Indonesia, specifically in Sumatra and Borneo.
• Size: Typically grows to about 2–2.5 inches (5–6 cm).
• Lifespan: Around 5–7 years with proper care.
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially towards its own kind.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males have a darker, more intense coloration and a distinctive line running down their belly.
Tank Requirements
• Tank Size: Minimum 10–15 gallons for a single specimen; a larger tank is required for multiple puffers.
• Water Parameters:
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• Hardness: 5–15 dGH
• Tank Setup:
• Plenty of plants, driftwood, and hiding spots.
• A soft substrate is preferable.
• Low to moderate water flow.
Diet & Feeding
• Carnivorous – primarily eats live and frozen foods such as:
• Bloodworms
• Snails (helps with beak maintenance)
• Daphnia
• Small crustaceans
• They do not typically accept dry foods like pellets or flakes.
Behavior & Compatibility
• Best kept alone or in a carefully planned species-only setup.
• Can be territorial, especially males.
• If kept with tankmates, consider fast-moving, non-fin-nipping fish, but it’s risky due to their potential aggression.
• May tolerate larger shrimp, but small shrimp and snails will likely be eaten.
Special Considerations
• Like all puffers, they have a beak-like mouth that requires wear-down from hard foods (like snails) to prevent overgrowth.
• They can be sensitive to water conditions, so regular water changes and a well-maintained tank are essential.
• Not a beginner-friendly fish due to their dietary needs and potential aggression.
